Any suggestions for getting off of Norco/Vicodin for good?

[becky_33]

I had started taking Vicodin after a slip and fall. It started after I thought I exhausted all possibilities with physical therapy, massage, chiropractic, exercise, etc. My general doctor referred me to a back specialist, who did nothing more than prescribe me vicodin... and a lot of them. I had taken them years before after having wisdom teeth removed, and enjoyed the feeling, but never abused them. However, having a doctor prescribe 6 per day let me think that's what I should have been taking. I was on them for a year, gradually increasing the dosage (he switched me to Norco which is a higher dosage of hydrocodine) and went off them cold turkey because I ran out, and the office couldn't refill them. It was hell, and at one point, I thought I was dying. I had cold sweats, electricity running through my body, restless leg syndrome, trouble concentrating, diarrhea, nausea, etc. but I kicked it. The first 4 days were hell, then I started feeling good. After 2 weeks, I felt 'normal' again. I was achy from my fall, but it was better than being high all the time. I didn't feel groggy as I did when on Norco/vicodin, and felt really good.

About 3 months of being 'clean' and totally off of the norco's, my brother-in-law broke his arm, and after joking that it would be great to get some of his meds, he gave me 3, which I took those right away, and was craving more.

I went to my back doctor and he prescribed me more, which I told myself it would only be for days when the pain got bad. However, I was back to 6-8 a day and here I am, 8 months later, again without pills, and going cold turkey. I have the same symptoms, and am wondering if I can stay off the norco's for good. Does anyone have tips/advice? I have a great husband who is supportive, and realizes my problem, but he is the only one to turn to. My family is critical of anyone who is addicted to something, and my friends don't understand how people get to this point. I was in the same boat, until I got hooked. That's why I am here for support and advice.

[2nd_X_Around]

Please don't pick those up that's just asking for trouble again, 2 days ago I saw that guy that supplied me(at NO cost) he ask how you doing? which usually is the code for do you need and I just said doing fine thanks. You have to commit to say no and avoid any possible obstacles having those around will make WAY to easy.

[becky_33]

Today is day 4 of detox. I feel pretty amazing, but I also know today is the day that my Norco prescription is being automatically filled. I tried to tell myself last night that maybe I should just pick it up and take them for really bad days, but that's how I got addicted the 2nd time around. It's really amazing how tightly addiction can grip you. I never thought this would happen to me.

[2nd_X_Around]

Day by Day,

Today is day 6 for me, yesterday I felt great... today just average... buts that's how it goes and this is my 2nd time around, however the first time I was taking MUCH GREATER DOSES...thank god I tried to keep it down this time knowing what was coming

Good luck an fight hard

[becky_33]

The 1st time of withdrawing/ detoxing, I didn't know that I would experience the extreme symptoms, and I thought I was going to die.. literally. I think what makes it easier the 2nd time is knowing to taper off, knowing what to eat/drink while detoxing, and also finding support on this website. I also know which days will be the hardest (the first 3 are the worst), whereas the first detox, I didn't know how long I would feel that way, and the doctor was unreachable. Now, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and I am just taking it baby steps.

[gnarly_1]

HE Becky god to here your feeling better.....no to withdrawals are the same but count yourself lucky most say it gets worst each time....keep posting for support and get involved with some sort of aftercare it will help you get past the cravings and stay off the mery go round we always emphasize getting clean is ezer ....its staying clean that takes the work ......hang in there keep posting for support good luck and God bless,,,,,,Gnarly

[becky_33]

I'm at day 3 of no norco and I feel a lot better than yesterday. I think vitamins and eating simple foods have helped. It's a lot easier going through this the 2nd time!